Real trial advocacy starts with the ability to recognize the skills of one's opponent. Once we understand and respect their abilities to present a strong case we can then adopt those ideas and insights as one's own. Give me a trial lawyer who can evaluate the various positions of his adversaries and assimilate them into his strategy he is on his way to winning for his client. It is essential to try their case against yourself and ultimately be in a position to effectively represent either side of the litigation. This role reversal should never be avoided if we want to win.